Gibbs wins GOP; Harbaugh nabs Democrat nod in Ohio's 7th District

Steven M. Grazier IndeOnline.com staff writer @sgrazierINDE

Tuesday

May 8, 2018 at 11:19 PM

A pair of Republican challengers failed big Tuesday night in an effort to unseat a three-term GOP congressman, while a former U.S. Navy pilot running as a Democrat won his primary election race in a landslide.

U.S. Rep. Bob Gibbs, R-Lakeview, was the unofficial winner of the GOP's 7th Congressional District race in Ohio. First-time political candidate Ken Harbaugh was the Democrat victor for the 7th District, and he's in line to face the incumbent Gibbs in November's general election.

With 81 percent of 7th District precincts reporting, Gibbs was leading with 78 percent of the vote over Patrick J. Quinn, who netted 11 percent, and Terry Roberston, who was flirting with 11 percent, according to unofficial statewide election results as of 10:15 p.m.

"I think the Republican voters realize we're making a difference," said Gibbs by phone shortly after his victory was announced. "I think they want to continue with the path we're on."

Gibbs touted the federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 as successful legislation he helped to pass in Congress, which is putting more money in the pockets of many Americans. Many call the act President Trump's most successful accomplishment since he assumed office in January 2017.

"We should see more economic growth in the future," Gibbs added.

In Stark County, Gibbs was leading the pack late Tuesday with 75 percent to Quinn's 15 percent, while Robertson had 11 percent, according to an unofficial count from the county Board of Elections office. Those totals were recorded with 99 percent of precincts reporting.

Gibbs was first elected in 2010 and holds a seat on the U.S. House Agriculture Committee and Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Barbs from both GOP opponents about his perceived lack of attendance at public gatherings or forums didn't seem to deter voters from pulling the lever for the incumbent.

"We're out there meeting with constituents irregardless of what my opponents say," Gibbs said.

Quinn, a U.S. Navy veteran who resides in Mount Vernon, campaigned as a "pro-life and pro-gun" social conservative who favors less government and a strict interpretation of the U.S. Constitution.

Robertson, a realtor from Valley City who previously ran unsuccessfully against Gibbs, frequently called the incumbent someone who "is not a true conservative."

Democrat Harbaugh earns bid

Harbaugh, of Avon, won in a landslide over Canton resident Patrick Pikus, 80 percent to 20 percent, according to unofficial election results from the Secretary of State. That count was with 81 percent of 7th District precincts reporting.

With 99 percent of precincts reporting in Stark County, Harbaugh was winning with 76 percent over Pikus' 24 percent, according to an unofficial count at the Board of Elections office.

A big victory was expected Tuesday, said Harbaugh, who credited his team of hundreds of volunteers who knocked on thousands of doors and made numerous phone calls on his behalf.

"We worked for a sold year getting our message out, 'country over party,'" Harbaugh said moments after his race was called.

Harbaugh, a former U.S. Navy intelligence pilot, has called the state's opioid epidemic the most pressing issue of his campaign.

Pikus, who was also making a first-time run for public office, said affordable health care and job creation were the two main topics he's been discussing with voters.

Looking for change

Jennifer Manista, of Massillon, cast her ballot Tuesday afternoon at First Christian Church on Wales Road NE. She declined to say who she voted for in the 7th District Democratic primary but was adamant about being anti-President Trump.

"We need to show up as Democrats to get the current administration out," Manista said. "I'm hoping we see some change today and in November."

Gina Stanford, of Perry Township, also voted at the Massillon church. She acknowledged voting in the congressional primary but declined to elaborate on who she cast a ballot for and why.

"I just want to make sure we get the right people in office," she said.

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